Final answer:
The goal of maternal position changes during a prolonged deceleration in labor is to maximize uterine blood flow, which in turn improves oxygen delivery to the fetus. This is part of managing the stages of childbirth to ensure the well-being of both mother and child.
The correct option is 1) Maximizing uterine blood flow
Step-by-step explanation:
The goal of maternal position changes for a prolonged deceleration is to maximize uterine blood flow. During labor, particularly when fetal heart rate decelerations occur, changing the mother's position can help improve blood flow to the uterus and placenta, supporting better oxygen delivery to the fetus. These position changes can range from having the mother lie on her side to elevating the legs or other maneuvers intended to optimize maternal hemodynamics and fetal well-being.
True labor is characterized by regular uterine contractions that become more powerful and frequent over time, leading to cervical dilation and effacement. Synthetic oxytocin, or Pitocin, may be used to stimulate these contractions if labor is not progressing.